Staande Mercurius 17th century

"Staande Mercurius" is a 17th century red chalk drawing by Dutch artist Caesar Boëtius van Everdingen, depicting the Roman god Mercury. The drawing features a standing, nude figure of Mercury, with a winged helmet and cloak, holding a caduceus, a staff entwined with snakes, a symbol of his role as messenger of the gods. The use of red chalk lends a subtle warmth to the drawing, highlighting the contours and muscularity of Mercury's body, a characteristic of Baroque art. This drawing is likely a study for a larger painting.